Thanks to Nesrine Malik for her calm elucidation of the smokescreen that obscures the real fractures of British society (The coronation pulled a screen across a desperate, polarised nation – just as intended, 8 May). Over the past few weeks I have felt bludgeoned into enthusiasm for the absurd ritual of the coronation. There have been times when I have questioned myself. Am I a killjoy? Do I not recognise the lengths that the royals have gone to modernise the monarchy and present its support for a more inclusive society? Look at all the laudable people who profess allegiance.
Nesrine puts her finger on the phenomenon. It’s not much fun feeling out in the cold – witness Prince Harry relegated to the third row at the Abbey – and it’s salutary to remember John Galbraith’s maxim that it’s safer to be wrong with the crowd rather than right by yourself. That’s why we need good journalism and rational argument.
Maria Goulding
Gateshead, Tyne and Wear
